Rishiri Island is famous as the island at the very edge of Hokkaido. During the season, you often see posters and the name of the island around town, but do you know what kind of island it is?

Rishiri Island boasts numerous attractive tourist spots, including Mount Rishiri, one of Japan's 1 Famous Mountains. The breathtaking view of Mount Rishiri floating on a marsh, surrounded by primeval forest, is so captivating that you'll feel yourself being drawn into the scenery. You can also enjoy forest bathing, stroll around the marsh, visit various tourist attractions, or even indulge in the luxury of driving around the island.

This time, we'll introduce information on Rishiri Island, including its main tourist spots, local cuisine, and recommended driving routes, so you can fully enjoy the island. Why not experience the wonderful charm unique to this northern land where time seems to flow slowly?

<Contents>
1. The spectacular scenery of Rishiri Island
2. About the island and transportation options
2-1. What kind of island is Rishiri?
2-2. About the Season
2-3. How to get to Rishiri Island
2-4. Transportation within Rishiri Island
3. Tourist attractions on Rishiri Island
3-1. Himenuma, the most popular tourist spot.
3-2. Otatomari Marsh, a representative marsh of Rishiri Island
3-3. Fujino Park: A breathtaking experience when you visit during its peak season.
3-4. Senhoshi Misaki Park, where, if you're lucky, you might spot a wild seal.
3-5. Experience Rishiri Island firsthand at "Rishiri Island Station: Seaweed Village Rishiri"
3-6. The perfect way to end your trip is at the "Sunset Hill Observatory" with its breathtaking views.
3-7. There's still more! Little spots to stop by.
　　"Northern Itsukushima Benten Shrine", "Peshi Cape Observatory", "Minamihama Wetland"
　　"Two filming locations for the movie 'Northern Canaries'" and "A limited-time scene of kelp drying."
　　"Rishiri Island Local History Museum" "Extra Edition"
4. A suggested itinerary for enjoying Rishiri Island
1. A digest course that can be completed in "3 hours"
2. A leisurely course that takes a full day to complete.
5. Food to eat on Rishiri Island
5-1. Part 1: "Uni-meshi Don" (sea urchin rice bowl), a representative local delicacy of Rishiri Island.
5-2. Part 2: Some customers even take the ferry just for this! "Grilled Soy Sauce Ramen"
5-3. Part 3: A must-try when you visit Rishiri: "Milpis," a drink that spread by word of mouth.
6. Things to prepare when going to Rishiri Island
6-1. About the climate
6-2. Regarding clothing
6-3. Others
Summary

Rishiri Island boasts numerous scenic spots that make many people think, "I want to see this scenery with my own eyes."

One of the most striking features is undoubtedly Mount Rishiri, which is featured on the packaging of Ishiya Confectionery's famous confection, Shiroi Koibito. And then there are the marshes that beautifully enhance the appearance of that mountain.

The sunsets along the coast are definitely something you'll want to capture.

One of the joys is taking a unique photograph from a spot that feels just right to you.

Many people visit the island to see the alpine plants that bloom all over the place.
ヒメイチゲ

Naniwazu

Ezo daylilies in Fujino Park

Rishiri Island, located about 52 kilometers from Wakkanai, the northernmost point of Hokkaido, has a circumference of approximately 63 kilometers. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to drive around the island.

Mount Rishiri, one of Japan's 1 Famous Mountains and a symbol of the island, stands at an elevation of 1721m, making it the highest peak in the north. Centered around this majestic Mount Rishiri, the island offers numerous tourist spots where you can fully enjoy nature. These include alpine plants unique to this remote island, crafts utilizing the bounty of the sea, and marshes where you can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore.
You can feel the vast and magnificent landscape and wind at the edge of the world, with nothing to obstruct your view.

The so-called "best season" for visiting Rishiri Island is roughly the same as for Rebun Island, the island next to it, from June to October.

There are several ways to enjoy Rishiri Island and Rebun Island, broadly speaking:
"Rishiri Island is a great place to enjoy sightseeing and alpine plants."
"Rebun Island is a great place to enjoy trekking and alpine plants."
That will be the main focus.

As for the alpine plants that bloom on this remote island, they are in full bloom around the same time, so many people enjoy visiting both Rebun Island and Rishiri Island together. Of these, the best time to visit Rishiri Island is "summer, from July to August." There are special sights that can only be seen from June to August (which I will touch on later), and only in summer can you enjoy serious mountain climbing as the snow on Mount Rishiri melts. It is not uncommon for the first snowfall to occur as early as late September. I recommend going during a time when you can enjoy as many sights as possible.

Rishiri Island has an airport, so you can get there by plane or by ferry.
There are few regular flights, and many people arrive by charter flight. Since it's a time-constrained trip, if your travel itinerary is tied to flight times, you might have to give up on seeing something you wanted to see because you don't have enough time.

Conversely, ferries operate for long hours, from early morning until night. Many tourists use ferries.

The process involves taking the Heartland Ferry from Wakkanai and arriving at Oshidomari Port in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Many people also travel from Wakkanai to Rebun Island first (about 2 hours) and then tour Rishiri Island.

However, there is one thing to be aware of: the "port" from which the ferries depart and arrive. During the peak season from June 1st to September 30th this year (2016), there are 3 to 4 round trips of ferries operating daily between Rishiri Island and Rebun Island. One of these round trips does not depart from Oshidomari Port, but from Kutsugata Port Ferry Terminal, which is about 12 km away from Oshidomari Port, so please be careful.

<Wakkanai Port Ferry Terminal (Heartland Ferry)>
Address: 2-7-1 Kaiun, Wakkanai City
Phone: 0162-23-3780
　URL: http://www.heartlandferry.jp/

　<Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal (Sea Station Oshidomari)>
Address: Oshidomari, Rishiri-Fuji-cho, Rishiri-gun
Phone: 0163-82-1121

<Kutsugata Port Ferry Terminal>
Address: Kutsugata, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun
Phone: 0163-84-2424

Rishiri Island is an island where you can drive all the way around it. The main modes of transportation are local buses, rental cars, scheduled sightseeing buses, and hired cars.
If you want to tour the island while enjoying the refreshing breeze, renting a bicycle is an option, but this becomes difficult unless you have plenty of time, such as by staying overnight.
Therefore, I'd like to categorize them by their intended use.

★Rent a car and enjoy having time all to yourself.
Renting a car allows you to enjoy yourself at your own pace without being interrupted by anyone. However, it becomes difficult to make a reservation from around July, so early booking is necessary.
*If you have the financial means, you can also rent a car in Wakkanai or Hokkaido and take the car with you on the ferry.

<List of rental car contact information>
Kutsugata: Kameya Rent-a-Car, Phone: 0163-84-2252 　
Oshidomari: Rishiri Rent-a-Car Tel: 0163-82-2551　
Oshidomari: Toyota Rent-a-Car Asahikawa Rishiri Branch Office Tel: 0163-89-2300 　
Oshidomari: Nippon Rent-A-Car Tel: 0163-89-0919　
Oshidomari: Maruzen Rent-a-Car Tel: 0163-82-2295
Oshidomari: Magokoro Rent-a-Car Tel: 0163-83-1551　
Oniwaki: Magokoro Rent-a-Car Phone: 0163-83-1603

★A "taxi" that takes you around tourist spots recommended by locals.
　
Taking a taxi tour while listening to the opinions and stories of locals can sometimes lead to discovering hidden gems not featured in magazines. The warm hospitality of the people of Rishiri is another appealing aspect of the trip.

<List of Hire Car Contact Information>
Kutsugata: Rishiri Hire Phone: 0163-84-2252
Oshidomari: Fuji Hire, Phone: 0163-82-1181

★ A regular sightseeing bus where you can make friends and share the experience of breathtaking scenery.
　
The regular sightseeing bus tours planned and operated by Soya Bus are popular every year. It's a half-day course starting in the morning, visiting the main points of interest, leaving the second half free for leisurely exploration of the sights.

*2017 course: Tour name "A Tour of the Magnificent Mount Rishiri"
　Depart Kutsugata at 8:35 → Depart Oshidomari Ferry Terminal at 9:25 → Himenuma → Nozuka Observatory → Otadomari Marsh → Senboshi Misaki Park → Museum → Jinmen-iwa (Human Face Rock), Neguma-no-iwa (Sleeping Bear Rock) → Arrive at Rishiri Airport at 12:45
(May 3rd - May 7th, May 21st - July 31st)
　Depart Kutsugata at 8:20 → Depart Oshidomari Ferry Terminal at 9:25 → Himenuma → Nozuka Observatory → Otadomari Marsh → Senboshi Misaki Park → Museum → Jinmen-iwa (Human Face Rock), Neguma-no-iwa (Sleeping Bear Rock) → Arrive at Rishiri Airport at 12:30
(6/1 ～ 7/31)
Depart Kutsugata at 8:20 → Depart Oshidomari Ferry Terminal at 9:25 → Himenuma → Museum → Otadomari Marsh → Senboshi Misaki Park → Jinmen-iwa (Human Face Rock), Neguma-no-iwa (Sleeping Bear Rock) → Arrive at Rishiri Airport at 12:30
(8/1 ～ 9/30)

<Soya Bus Contact Information>
Soya Bus Rishiri Sales Office Tel: 0162-22-3114

By choosing a mode of transportation that suits your purpose, you can enjoy a comfortable trip!

Himenuma Pond, surrounded by forest, boasts a tranquil atmosphere. This small pond, about 1km in circumference, can be explored in approximately 20 minutes via a walking trail. On clear, windless days, you can sometimes see a reflection of Mount Fuji on the water's surface, making it a popular spot for its mystical beauty. (Morning hours are recommended to avoid backlighting.)
　
Hime-numa Pond, located directly north of the summit of Mount Rishiri, offers the most beautiful view of Mount Rishiri rising above the primeval forest, making it a must-visit spot if you come to Rishiri Island. The walking trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Another characteristic of Himenuma is that it is an artificially created swamp.

The area was originally named Hime-numa (Princess Pond) because three existing swamps were dammed up, and the water level was raised with spring water before releasing Himemasu (landlocked salmon). Its secluded beauty, which is hard to believe is man-made, makes it a must-see tourist spot.

■Address: Rishirifuji-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
■Inquiries: Rishiri Fuji Town Tourism Association: 0163-82-1114
　　　　　　Rishiri Fuji Town Tourist Information Center: 0163-82-2201

This is the largest lake on Rishiri Island, and like Hime-numa, it is a viewpoint that offers a beautiful view of Mount Rishiri. The primeval forest of Sakhalin spruce surrounding the lake plays a supporting role, further enhancing the already spectacular scenery.
　
Like Himenuma Pond, Otatomari Pond also has walking paths, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its edge. In season, you can see Ezo azaleas and irises blooming along the roadside. The sight of lotus flowers floating on the water's surface is also beautiful.

Another unique feature of Otatomari Marsh is that you can see Mount Rishiri from almost the same angle as it appears on the packaging of the famous confection, Shiroi Koibito, from the observation deck. Be sure to bring the box with you and compare the beautiful scenery that inspired the confection's packaging!
　
Also featured is Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lovers Hill), a popular spot where you can receive a "Proposal Certificate" after proposing, which is highly recommended for those considering marriage or planning to propose to their partner. This new project, established by the town's tourism association, is already proving popular.
　
You will receive a proposal certificate with your proposal words inscribed on it, making it a lifelong memento. Be sure to apply at the tourist information center inside the Oshidomari Ferry Terminal.

■Address: Oniwaki Numaura, Rishiri-gun, Rishiri-Fuji-cho
■Inquiries: Rishiri Fuji Town Tourism Association: 0163-82-1114
　　　　　　Rishiri Fuji Town Tourist Information Center: 0163-82-2201

　
Fujino Park is a popular spot known for its large clusters of Hemerocallis middendorffii flowers.

The best time to see them is from mid-June to mid-July. From the observation deck overlooking the Fujino Park area, you can enjoy a view that resembles an orange carpet.

In addition, you can see Ponmosir Island from the observation deck, giving you a real sense of the vastness of the land.

Incidentally, the memorable scene in the movie "Northern Canaries" where the protagonist sings "Like That Blue Sky" with his students in a flower field was also filmed here. The daylilies swaying in the wind create a fantastical scene.

Then, driving about 5km from Fujino Park, you'll find "Kanro-sensui," a spring known as the ultimate source of pure water. It springs up along the Oshidomari climbing route of Mount Rishiri (around the 3rd station) and is a delicious, sweet-tasting water loved by the locals.

I think it would be a good idea to stop by while you're sightseeing at Fujino Park.

■Address: Oshidomari Fujino, Rishiri-gun, Rishiri-fuji-cho
■Inquiries: Rishiri Fuji Town Tourism Association: 0163-82-1114
　　　　　Rishiri Fuji Town Tourist Information Center: 0163-82-2201

　
Located at the southernmost tip of Rishiri Island, Senboshi Misaki Park features a landscape of strangely shaped rocks and boulders formed by lava flows from Mount Senboshi Pon. Surprisingly, wild spotted seals inhabit the surrounding sea.
　
Nearby souvenir shops sell seal food, so you can enjoy feeding the seals in this natural aquarium created by nature.

Furthermore, the southernmost point of the sea is exceptionally clear, so on calm, windless days, you can see kelp and other marine life just by peering at the surface. There's also a natural observation site nearby, so why not take a look? You can learn about the northernmost point of the sea.

Address: Senboshi, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
■Inquiries: Rishiri Town Tourism Association: 0163-84-3622

　
Various types of seaweed wash ashore daily along the coast of Rishiri Island. You can enjoy various crafting experiences using these natural materials to make postcards, bookmarks, keychains, and more.

The seaweed crafts displayed in the courtyard are also attracting attention as a new way to preserve nature forever, and you can enjoy the stone warehouse gallery. Seeing, creating, touching nature, and experiencing Rishiri Island firsthand will surely be the best souvenir.

Another highlight is the opportunity to visit the oldest building on the island, constructed over 120 years ago. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the advanced architectural techniques that have endured in earthquake-prone Japan since ancient times. Why not experience the island's ancient architecture firsthand?

<Rishiri Island Station, Seaweed Village Rishiri>
Address: Watanabe Shoten, Kutsugata Honmachi, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun
Phone: 0163-84-2514
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed days: Open every day in summer, closed on Mondays in winter.
Reservations required (not required for groups of 5 or fewer).
Transportation: Not available

<Example of an experience menu>
■ Mini framed picture (approximately 30 minutes, April to December, 1,500 yen)
■Postcards and bookmarks (approximately 30 minutes, 600 yen from April to December)
■Keychain (approximately 15 minutes, 600 yen from April to December) and others

　
Heading north on Rishiri Island, you'll find the Yuuhigaoka Observatory at its northernmost point. The path to the 45-meter-high hill involves climbing a gentle staircase, walking up a long slope for a while, and then encountering another set of stairs at the end.

Looking at the numbers alone, you might think it's a tough climb, but the views are great, so it feels like a pleasant stroll. And below you, you can see Ponmosir Island, which is home to seabirds.

With no buildings obstructing the view, the sun setting beyond Rebun Island is a sight you can only experience in this location. Be sure to visit as the perfect way to end your trip.

<Yuhigaoka Observatory>
Address: Oshidomari Fujino, Rishiri-Fuji Town, Rishiri District, Hokkaido
Phone: 0163-82-1114 (Rishiri Fuji Town Commerce and Tourism Division, Commerce and Tourism Section)

★A hidden gem of a tourist spot on the west coast of Rishiri Island: "Kita no Itsukushima Benten-gu Shrine"
　
This is a historic shrine, said to have been built in gratitude for Benzaiten saving a cargo ship from being shattered by a storm against a rock. The bright red shrine, built atop a rock associated with the Dragon God, is very striking. There is also another ancient legend associated with this shrine.
　
In fact, it is said that at the time, something would descend upon this Dragon God Rock at dusk, making a rumbling sound, and then disappear into this rock. The locals, considering this an ominous sign, did not speak much about it. However, one day, a passing ascetic left instructions for people to build a shrine on the rock and worship it. Contrary to such legends, the shrine itself is remarkably beautiful. Please enjoy the view reflected in the sea.
<Northern Itsukushima Benten Shrine>
Address: Senboshikuren, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun

★Actually, it's a famous spot for watching the sunrise: "Peshi Cape Observatory"
　
Behind Oshidomari Port lies a massive rocky cape, about 90 meters high. It's about a 5-minute walk to the top. The slope is quite steep, but the view is magnificent.
　
Cape Peshi, also known as Lighthouse Mountain, is a scenic spot where you can see Rebun Island and Wakkanai on a clear day, and is also famous as a place to watch the sunrise. The surrounding area is also great for birdwatching, so it's a good place to stop by for a short detour.

<Peshi Cape Observatory>
Address: Oshidomari, Rishirifuji-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido

★Even the withered trees look beautiful in the Minamihama Wetlands.

The Minamihama Wetland, located between Otatomari Marsh and Senhoshi Misaki Park, offers a variety of plant species to admire.
The wetland area, where irises and cotton grass grow in clusters just above the coast and are now in full bloom, is a place that we highly recommend for anyone who enjoys plant viewing and photography.

If you choose to drive clockwise starting from Oshidomari, I recommend visiting Otatomari Marsh after your visit.

★A tour of the filming locations for the popular movie "Northern Canaries," starring Sayuri Yoshinaga.
　
As many of you may already know, Rishiri Island also has locations that were used as filming locations for "The Northern Canaries." Fujino Park, which I mentioned earlier, is famous for being featured in some memorable scenes.
　
It's becoming known as a new tourist attraction on Rishiri Island, and it's easy to find thanks to the clear signs. Whether you've seen the movie or not, you'll be captivated by the magnificent scenery. Try sightseeing from a movie perspective!

★A seasonal sight from June to August: "The sight of kelp being dried for a limited time."
　
Kombu (kelp) is a local specialty of the island, and you can see scenes of it being sun-dried everywhere along the coast. The sheer quantity is astonishing. Be sure to keep an eye out for it while you're driving (drivers, please don't get distracted!).

★Experience the history of Rishiri Island at the "Rishiri Island Local History Museum"
　
You can learn about the alpine plants, wild birds, and daily life on Rishiri Island. Numerous local historical materials are on display, and with four exhibition booths, it's easy to understand and a great way to experience history. The building's exterior, with Mount Rishiri in the background, is also picturesque.
　
<Local History Museum>
Address: Oniwaki, Rishiri-Fuji-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0163-83-1620
Public: 9:00-17:00
Closed on Mondays (open every day in July and August)

★Bonus Episode: Looking up at the sky in the northern lands. Pay attention to the clouds you see in summer.

On Rishiri Island, you can sometimes encounter unusual cloud formations in the bright blue sky. Observing the sky, which you don't usually get a chance to look up at, can be interesting, whether it's a sign of rain, clouds hanging over Mount Rishiri, or swirling lenticular clouds (commonly known as the "Laputa clouds of the sky").

　
It's common to tour Rishiri Island clockwise. For a 3-hour condensed course, you need to focus on the main points and choose tourist spots that are "just worth seeing." The great thing is that you can also choose to head to Rebun Island after a half-day of sightseeing. Therefore, I've put together a model itinerary for visiting the above-mentioned tourist spots by rental car. Please use it as a reference!

■ Departure from Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal → Himenuma Pond → Otatomari Pond → Senboshi Misaki Park → Milpis Store → Finish at Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal
*You can also change "Milpis Store" to something like "Island Station Seaweed Village Rishiri".

■ Departure from Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal → Himenuma Pond → Rishiri Island Local History Museum → Otatomari Pond → Senboshi Misaki Park → Itsukushima Benten Shrine → Island Station Seaweed Village Rishiri → Milpis Store → Fujino Park → Yuhigaoka Observatory → Goal at Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal

*If you have extra time, be sure to include places like "Minamihama Marshland" and "Peshi Cape Observatory" in between. The key to a successful day is "time management," so try to see a wide variety of places but not too much at each, and be sure to conquer them all.

Maruzen's sea urchin rice bowl
The "Uni Meshi Don" (sea urchin rice bowl) can be enjoyed inside the Oshidomari Ferry Terminal. This famous rice bowl has won the grand prize multiple times in the National Local Rice Bowl Championship.

This sea urchin rice dish is made with a rich broth extracted from the finest natural Rishiri kelp and bonito flakes, then simmered with plenty of sea urchin. What's more, it's generously topped with a generous amount of sea urchin and salmon roe. This is a must-try gourmet dish that is gaining nationwide recognition as a specialty of Rishiri Island.
<Maruzen>
Address: 235 Minatomachi, Oshidomari, Rishiri-gun, Rishiri-fuji-cho, Hokkaido, Oshidomari Port Ferry Terminal 2F
Phone: 0163-82-1110
Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 14:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Price: Sea urchin rice bowl set meal (with side dish and miso soup) 1,600 yen, etc.

The broth made with natural kelp from Rishiri is exquisite.MirakuThis is a grilled soy sauce ramen. The base is made by simmering pork bones, chicken bones, and various vegetables for a full 17 hours. Natural kelp broth from Rishiri Island is added to that rich flavor. It's a ramen with an irresistible, superb blend of flavors.
　
It features a rich yet refreshing soup. This legendary ramen, which can only be eaten on Rishiri Island, is the ultimate ramen made using the bounty of the sea. *Incidentally, the amount of green onions has been increased to represent Mount Rishiri.
<Miraku>
Address: 67 Honmachi, Kutsugata, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0163-84-3558
Hours: 11:30-14:00, 17:00-19:00
Closed: Thursday
Prices: Salt ramen 750 yen, grilled soy sauce ramen 800 yen, miso ramen 850 yen, etc.

3. Point 3: A must-try when you come to Rishiri: "Milpis," a drink that spread by word of mouth.

Morihara Farm, founded in 1937. The farm no longer exists, but it is well known as"Milpis"It remains a beloved drink not only by locals but also by many tourists.

Originally served as milk in school lunches and other places, Rishiri Milk was transformed into Milpis, a drink based on milk and lactic acid. This led to the current flavor. The taste, enjoyed by sipping it straight from the milk bottle, evokes a nostalgic, homemade warmth. Why not stop by during your drive and recharge your energy?

<Milpis Store>
Address: 150 Shinminato, Kutsugata, Rishiri-cho
Phone: 0163-84-2227
Price: 350 yen per 180cc serving

　　　

From the Japan Meteorological Agency website
This guide provides information on the climate and appropriate clothing for the peak season, primarily from June to October, broken down by month. It should be helpful when planning your trip, so be sure to check it out!

★June temperatures → This is the beginning of early summer. The average temperature is 13-15 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius and a maximum of around 20 degrees Celsius.

★July temperatures → With the opening of Mount Rishiri, the full-fledged climbing season begins. The average temperature is
The temperature will be around 17-18 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 8 degrees and a maximum of approximately 25 degrees.

★August temperatures → This is the time of year when summer ends on Rishiri Island. Temperatures start to drop around the middle of the month, and autumn arrives. The average temperature is 20-21 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 12 degrees Celsius and a maximum of around 27 degrees Celsius.

★September temperatures → The weather is pleasant and comfortable. The average temperature is 17-18 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 7 degrees Celsius and a maximum of around 24 degrees Celsius.

★October temperatures → In early October, you can see the first snowfall on Mount Rishiri. By late October, winter arrives and snow begins to fall on Rishiri Island. The average temperature is 12-13 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 3 degrees Celsius and a maximum of around 19 degrees Celsius.

　　
★Clothing for June and September → Long sleeves and long pants are the basic attire. Even during the day, we recommend wearing a shirt or blouse for sightseeing. It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or cardigan as a backup. Just in case, it's reassuring to have one thicker jacket in your bag.

★Clothing for July and August → Summer clothes such as short-sleeved shirts and shorts are fine. However, if you plan to visit high-altitude areas or forests, we recommend wearing a light T-shirt and long pants. This is not only to protect against the cold, but also because there are many mosquitoes and other creatures in nature. It will also help reduce injuries such as scraping your legs on walking trails or falling on the way to observation decks, so please listen to your body. *Even in summer, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so don't forget to bring a light jacket or cardigan.

★October attire → Winter clothing is necessary. You will need a thick sweater, trousers, and a thick outer layer such as a jacket or fleece coat.

The most easily overlooked things are actually "rain gear" and "insect repellent." Most people will probably bring a "folding umbrella" and "insect repellent spray"...

■Preparing rain gear: Correct answer → Umbrella + raincoat + large plastic bag + bath towel (and rain boots if possible)
　　
Rishiri Island has no obstructions, so rain and wind often blow sideways. Unfortunately, folding umbrellas are not very useful. Keep a raincoat in a small compression bag and tuck it into your bag. In case of emergency, wrapping a bath towel around your neck before putting on your raincoat is effective. If it's raining from the morning, wearing rain boots should prevent your shoes from getting wet on sunny days.

■Insect repellent measures: Correct answer → Insect repellent spray + salt water + anti-itch cream
　　
Most of the area around Rishiri Island involves walking through vast natural landscapes. Even with insect repellent spray, you'll still get bitten in the mountains. (The best option, regardless of the season, is long sleeves and long pants.)

Saltwater is a panacea. A good guideline is to make your own solution with a concentration of 20% or higher. Put 20g or more of salt into 80cc of water in a spray bottle that you can buy for 100 yen. What do you use it for? If you happen to encounter leeches (hopefully you won't, but just in case), spray it on them and they'll fall off. It's also effective to spray it on areas where leeches can easily get in, such as around the neck, hands, feet, and ankles, and on hats.

How did you like our list of must-see sights on Rishiri Island?
It's possible to tour the island in half a day if you want to. But if you're going all the way there, I recommend taking your time to explore Rishiri Island, a place you don't get to visit often. The people are warm, friendly, and easy to talk to. Be sure to enjoy Rishiri Island while interacting with the locals.

Image provided (in part): Rishiri Fuji Town Tourism Association

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